Side Quests

Dear Outer Coast Friends,

I'm very grateful for all your kindness in having me. I especially valued the conversations I had with many of you — those moments when you expressed curiosity about me meant a lot. Our conversations, ranging from gardening & mycology to the question of love and our philosophies on AI, were all fascinating. I also found the spontaneous get-togethers, co-working, and walk culture at Outer Coast really inspiring. And I have to say that you all are killing the fashion, art, self-expression game here — love it!

I really enjoyed participating in your classes like Dreams, IS, Models in Science, Indigenous Tech. The ideas we explored & convos we shared are things I'll keep thinking about & connecting to what I learn in the future. I was continually struck by how insightful & curious you all were. I also appreciated being encouraged to throw an adaladal, watching the movie, & being welcomed to join the SB meetings (even though I ended up missing it).

You all have a very special community at OC and in Sitka, and I'm glad I got a taste of it. I loved seeing people say hello on the streets, chatting with the storekeepers, and being rescued by the Sitka police — they gave me a ride on my first day when I got lost lol.

Shout out to the people who showed me how beautiful Sitka is as we walked to the wintery wonders of the coasts, forest, harbor, recycling spot, cemetery. Thanks for offering to take pictures for me (I love pictures), while helping me lock in a deeply felt the nature and moment. Embodying the wild life & immersing myself in place-based learning made me feel the beauty of life here.

I admire you all deeply, and I'm thankful for each of you for creating this very cherished experience for me :)

Warmly,
Tina Zeng